See the 2003 MCM Story

The Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) will harness the collective power of it's runners to donate used running shoes to The Downtown Services Center of Washington D.C. More than 20,000 participants in the MCM, MCM8K and Healthy Kids Fun Run are being encouraged to donate a pair of used running shoes at the MCM Runners' Expo presented by Caremark at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City from Thursday, October 28 through Saturday, October 30, 2004.

"Many marathoners have shoes that are past 'prime' running condition, but are still in fine order and appropriate for use," said Rick Nealis, Marine Corps Marathon Race Director. "The Marine Corps Marathon saw an opportunity for runners to donate their training shoes for the benefit of others."

The Downtown Services Center is a one-stop center focused on meeting the various needs of the homeless in Washington, D.C. The Center helps the community by providing housing and medical assistance, donating clothes and finding interviews and jobs for the homeless.

"The Marine Corps Marathon and all of the individuals who make a donation to the Center are not only improving the lives of each homeless individual, but also improving the community as a whole," said Jonathan Ward, Director of the Downtown Services Center.

A shoe donation collection box will be located outside Hyatt Regency Crystal City lobby entrance during the MCM Runners' Expo. The Hyatt is located at 2799 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington VA. Expo Hours are: Thursday, October 28 from 4 p.m.- 8 p.m.; Friday, October 29 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Saturday October 30 from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

The Marine Corps Marathon continues a combined tradition of dedication, sportsmanship and patriotism. Since its inception, over 293,000 civilian and military runners from all walks of life have participated, deservingly earning the event its nickname "The People's Marathon." The Marine Corps Marathon also hosts The Washington Post presents: The Healthy Kids Fun Run on Saturday, October 30 and the Marine Corps Marathon 8K on Sunday, October 31, immediately following the start of the Marathon.

A scene from the 2003 MCM: Boy Scouts relaxed before the throng of runners passed along M Street NW in Georgetown and grabbed a quick drink of water from the volunteers. The course was also manned by Marines who shouted words of encouragement to the marathoners.